### Mercedes-Benz India Achieves Milestone with Local Production of Maybach GLS Mercedes-Benz India has made a significant leap in its manufacturing capabilities by announcing the local production of the ultra-luxury Maybach GLS in Pune. This move positions India as the first market outside the United States to manufacture this high-end SUV, reflecting the country's growing importance in the global luxury automotive market. The decision comes on the heels of a record revenue year for the company in 2025, driven by strong sales in the AMG, Maybach, and electric vehicle (EV) segments. The localization of production is expected to reduce the price of the Maybach GLS by over ₹40 lakh, making it more accessible to Indian consumers [https://www.autoguideindia.com/awards-milestones/mercedes-benz-india-maybach-gls-local-production-2025][https://www.cnbctv18.com/auto/mercedes-benz-to-locally-produce-maybach-gls-in-india-cut-price-by-over-rs-40-lakh-19820837.htm]. ### Overview of Key Developments and Strategic Moves 1. **Local Production Announcement**: Mercedes-Benz India has commenced local production of the Maybach GLS at its Pune facility, marking a historic first for the country [https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/mercedes-benz-begins-local-production-of-maybach-gls-in-pune-first-outside-us/article70509771.ece]. 2. **Price Reduction**: The localization effort is set to cut the price of the Maybach GLS by over ₹40 lakh, making it more competitive in the luxury SUV market [https://www.timesnownews.com/auto/car-news/mercedes-benz-india-to-launch-12-new-car-in-2026-start-maybach-gls-suv-production-in-pune-article-153446320]. 3. **Sales Performance**: In 2025, Mercedes-Benz India reported record sales of 19,007 luxury cars, contributing to its status as one of the top five global markets for the Maybach brand [https://www.newindianexpress.com/business/2026/jan/14/mercedes-to-start-local-production-of-maybach-gls-model-in-pune-plant-posts-sales-of-19007-luxury-cars-in-2025]. 4. **Future Plans**: The company plans to launch 12 new models in India by the end of 2026, including new variants and facelifts, further expanding its luxury portfolio [https://www.fortuneindia.com/business-news/mercedes-benz-india-achieves-record-2025-revenue-joins-top-five-global-markets-for-maybach/129468]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Record Revenue**: Mercedes-Benz India achieved record revenue in 2025, driven by strong sales in luxury segments, including AMG and Maybach [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/business/3769051-mercedes-benz-moves-maybach-production-to-india-amid-economic-strains]. - **Production Details**: The Maybach GLS is now priced at ₹2.75 crore, with the Celebration Edition priced at ₹4.10 crore, reflecting the impact of local production on pricing strategies [https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/cars/first-made-in-india-mercedes-maybach-gls-launched-priced-at-rs-2-75-crore/amp-41768378647656.html]. - **Market Position**: India has emerged as a key market for ultra-luxury vehicles, with Mercedes-Benz's strategic move to localize production reinforcing its commitment to this segment [https://www.thehawk.in/news/economy-and-business/india-becomes-1st-market-outside-us-to-start-local-production-of-mercedes-maybach-gls]. ### Conclusion: Strategic Implications for Mercedes-Benz India **Mercedes-Benz India's decision to localize the production of the Maybach GLS is a strategic move that underscores its commitment to the Indian luxury market.** 1. **Market Leadership**: By becoming the first country outside the U.S. to produce the Maybach GLS, India solidifies its position as a critical hub for luxury automotive manufacturing [https://www.ndtvprofit.com/auto/india-to-be-only-country-other-than-us-to-manufacture-mercedes-benzs-suv-gls-maybach]. 2. **Enhanced Accessibility**: The significant price reduction will likely increase demand among affluent Indian consumers, making luxury vehicles more accessible [https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-makers/mercedes-benz-to-locally-build-maybach-gls-in-india-cuts-price-by-over-₹40-lakh-87626.htm]. 3. **Future Growth**: With plans for new model launches and a focus on electric vehicles, Mercedes-Benz India is poised for continued growth in the luxury segment [https://money.rediff.com/news/market/mercedes-benz-to-make-gls-maybach-in-india/40181920260114]. This strategic localization not only enhances the brand's appeal but also aligns with the growing demand for luxury vehicles in India, setting the stage for a robust future in the automotive market.